Nigeria’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, has announced his retirement from international football, just days after being named in the Super Eagles’ provisional squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), scheduled to begin on December 21.
Troost-Ekong, 32, revealed his decision in a video post on his X handle on Thursday evening, describing his decade-long journey with the national team as an honour. “Today, I am announcing my retirement from international football,” he said, adding that the time had come to “pass on the responsibility, the opportunity, and the captaincy.”
Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and Nigerian father, the defender made his Super Eagles debut in 2015 during an AFCON qualifier against Chad under coach Stephen Keshi. He went on to represent Nigeria at the 2016 Rio Olympics, helping the team secure a bronze medal, and formed a formidable defensive partnership with Leon Balogun, famously dubbed the “Oyinbo Wall.”
Troost-Ekong featured at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and won bronze at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt. He captained Nigeria to a runners-up finish at the 2024 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where he was named Player of the Tournament. Despite Nigeria’s failed bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, he remained a central figure in the squad.
Over his international career, the Al-Kholood defender earned 83 caps and scored eight goals. In his farewell message, he thanked Nigerian fans, teammates, and coaches “past and present,” saying their support carried him through every challenge. “To the Nigerian fans — the heartbeat of Nigerian football. Your support has carried me through every high and every challenge. I will stand with you as you stood with me,” he said.
Troost-Ekong’s retirement marks the end of an era for the Super Eagles, as they prepare for the upcoming AFCON without their long-serving captain.
